Dog Bite Injury Considerations: Things To Know

Dog bites can lead to severe injuries in some cases, leaving you facing significant and costly recovery. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, the owner of a dog must be held accountable if their dog bites someone. When you work with a dog bite attorney to pursue a case after a bite, you have a better chance of building a sound and reasonable claim. Here's a look at some of the factors you need to consider.

Is There A History Of Aggression?

In many states, there are strict liability laws for dog owners whose dogs have a history of aggression, including multiple bites and similar issues. Your attorney can help you research the dog's history to determine if this is a first-time incident or simply indicative of the dog's general demeanor and the owner's negligence.

Was Your Behavior Reasonable?

Another element that the courts consider with a dog bite claim is the behavior and actions of the victim. Behaving in a way that threatens the dog may absolve the dog owner of liability for your injuries. Whether you were yelling at the dog or brandished a weapon of any kind, if the dog was threatened and had reason to fear you, you have some liability for the incident. If, on the other hand, you can show that your behavior was reasonable, such as if the dog came after you, that can help you build a sound case.

Was The Owner Irresponsible?

Many dog bites occur because the dog owner fails to secure their pet. Allowing dogs to run off-leash and without fenced-in property puts people and other animals at risk of dog bites. If the bite you suffered was a result of a dog owner who failed to secure their pet or neglected to intervene when their dog pursued you, the dog owner may be liable for your injuries.

Is The Dog Current On Vaccines?

There are many concerns with dog bite injuries, but the dog's vaccine status is sometimes overlooked. The court will want proof of vaccinations, but you should consider seeking that information immediately after your injury so that you can pursue preventative care if necessary in the event that the dog was overdue for or missing vaccines.

These are some of the most important things to consider when you reach out to a dog bite attorney about your case. They can help you assess each of these questions and more to see if you have a sound case for your injury. 

For more info, contact a local dog bite lawyer. 

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